PM Modi Hails Odisha’s Folk Singers For Forest Fire Awareness Drive

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the 124th episode of his radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat‘, spotlighted a remarkable grassroots initiative from Odisha.

He praised the ‘Radhakrishna Sankirtan Mandali’, a group of devotional singers from Keonjhar district, for their unique awareness campaign against forest fires using folk music and kirtans.

PM Modi noted that India’s diversity shines through its folk traditions, especially in its bhajans and kirtans.

However, he highlighted how this group had added a fresh dimension by using their music for environmental advocacy.

“You may not believe it, but in Keonjhar district, a devotional group is making people aware of forest fires through kirtans,” said the Prime Minister.

Led by a Woman with a Vision

At the heart of this campaign is Pramila Pradhan, whose leadership and creativity have transformed traditional devotional singing into a medium for change.

Her group now chants not only for spiritual awakening but also for ecological consciousness. They have travelled from village to village, educating communities about the dangers of forest fires and the need to protect natural habitats.

PM Modi praised the group’s ability to weave new lyrics and conservation messages into traditional tunes, making it easier for villagers to connect emotionally with the message of forest preservation.

Shifting focus, the Prime Minister also spoke about the upcoming ‘National Handloom Day’ on August 7, which commemorates the Swadeshi Movement that began in 1905.

This year marks a decade since the observance began, and PM Modi used the opportunity to spotlight grassroots initiatives revitalising India’s textile heritage.

He specifically highlighted the work of over 650 tribal women in Mayurbhanj, Odisha, who have revived the traditional ‘Santhali saree’. Through their efforts, these women now earn a steady income while restoring pride in their cultural identity.

“They are not just making cloth but also carving their own identity,” said the Prime Minister.

PM Modi also cited the example of Naveen Kumar from Nalanda, Bihar, whose family has been involved in handloom weaving for generations. His work symbolises how tradition and modern enterprise can co-exist.

By showcasing such localised yet powerful stories, PM Modi underscored that India’s folk traditions and handloom sector remain vital forces for both cultural revival and economic empowerment.

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